Android vs iOS vs Windows for Mobile Warehousing

Comparison Report 2017: Which is best for Enterprise Warehouse Mobile Applications, Android, iOS or Windows Mobile.

There has been a shift amongst the 3 players within the enterprise mobile market in the last 12 months. Where once Windows dominated, Android and iOS have now caught up and overtaken them. So, let’s review the state of play as of 2017.

Windows Mobile

Microsoft has essentially abandoned Windows CE and Windows Mobile and unfortunately there is really no upgrade route. Microsoft replace Windows Mobile with Windows Phone, although this is aimed at the consumer market rather than enterprise. Windows may make a comeback into the market, although there are no signs of this yet.

Pros

There are some great apps and platforms designed for Windows Mobile that are still very much supported by the respective software companies

Cons

No future for Microsoft Mobile in the Enterprise market so this does pose a problem in upgrading your hardware down the track

With no future in Windows Mobile, app developers will begin to not bother creating a Windows version of their app, focusing only on Android and iOS.

iOS

iOS is naturally unique amongst this group, in that Apple only allows iOS on its own hardware. This does mean you’re not going to find purpose built rugged barcode scanners running iOS. It has however, opened the market for 3rd parties to develop an array of sleds and attachments which can transform a standard iPhone into an enterprise grade device. If you’re already very familiar with iOS then this can be a good option. It must be considered though that anytime you attach an add-on onto another device, it will never feel as solid or ergonomic as a device designed specifically for the intended use.

Pros

Simple to use

Can use an existing iPhone which allows for simple upgrades over time

iOS isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, so you’re future proofed

Some great enterprise apps and platforms have been designed for iOS

Cons

Cost- once you add the cost of the phone and 3rd party attachment, you will not get much change from $1600 USD

Ruggedness- an iPhone in a sled, is still just an iPhone in a sled. So there is only so tough and rugged it can be built

Limited choice. You’re limited to the few companies which produce 3rd part add-ones for the iPhone

Android

Last but certainly not least. Android has gone from strength to strength in the Mobile Enterprise market over the last 12-24 months. This has been mainly down to 3 reasons. The slow death of Windows Mobile, the increase in Android use within the consumer market and finally, the increase in enterprise apps being developed for Android. Where once enterprise app developers would just develop and app for only iOS or only Windows, most now realise they need to develop 2 versions, one for iOS and one for Android.

Pros

Android being open source allows for purpose built barcode scanners which means there is a broad range to choose from

Easy to use

Android is growing well in the consumer market, so it is future proofed

Increasing number of enterprise apps available on Android

Hardware is generally more cost effective then iOS solutions

Cons

The Android market is somewhat fragmented with devices running different versions of Android- be careful you purchase a unit you know is compatible with your software choice

ScanSKU develops and manufactures held-held Android Based Barcode Hardware Solutions. ScanSKU partners with app and software developers in Inventory, POS, Asset Management and Mobile Invoicing Industries, to ensure the customer can begin using the solution right out of the box.